Popular Technologies of Heated Basement Floors

Even the warmest basements can run between 5-15 degrees cooler than ground-floor levels. If you’re looking for floor heating but don’t know where to start, here is a good place. We’ll compare different basement heating technologies and their factors so you can determine which is the best fit for you.

Before You Start

Before selecting, these three thoughts will help you decide what choice is best for your home.

Think about how frequently your basement will be in use.

Find out if you’re able to extend your pre-existing HVAC system

Determine if your regional climate favours cooling or heating.

Extending Existing HVAC System

Chances are that your home already consists of a HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. Since it heats other parts of the home, it has the potential to have the ductwork extended to the basement. This pre-existing system is the most beneficial heating technology if you already do!

Extensions can be attached to the main supply and have the new ductwork concealed between the ceiling. This is especially easy for unfinished spaces or basements in the remodeling stages.

Baseboard Heaters

Baseboard heaters are among the most popular heated basement floor options in colder climates. Their benefits include:

Low cost.

Simple installation.

Portable baseboard heaters, although less efficient and less effective, can be plugged in directly to an outlet.

However, they are limited in their range, meaning there should be a baseboard heater in every room. Likewise, they take upward to 30 minutes to warm up and should be placed away from drapes, furniture, and anything flammable.

Radiant Heat Systems

These are the best option if you intend on keeping your basement as a living space. Radiant heat systems and wall-mounted units rely on heating cables that are embedded in the ceiling or floor. They operate on electricity and use principle heat radiation to heat small spaces. Their ease, economy, and effectiveness in warming basements make them ideal for the job.

Although they are expensive, they are highly efficient and long-lasting.

Ceramic Space Heaters

Ceramic space heaters also operate on electricity. They are portable and consist of ceramic plates with aluminum sheets in-between that heat up. They’re considered safer and more energy efficient than other space heaters. They also come with extra safety mechanisms depending on price and model.

Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditions

Although expensive, a mini-split system is easily installed and is extremely versatile. In comparison to a window-mounted air conditioning unit that would not benefit a basement setting, a mini-split only requires a 3-inch hole to connect the indoor unit to the outdoor one.

The best part? they’re not susceptible to losing energy through leaky ductwork.

Electric Heaters

Electric heaters are both inexpensive and effective. They use an electric element in the form of a coil to generate heat. Fans are also included to disperse the heated air into the area. Likewise, they are safe and free from harmful emissions.

Fireplaces and Wood Burning Stoves

Both options are extremely economical and more efficient than any other heated basement floors options if you already have a working chimney in your basement. They also help in heating up your spaces during power outages since they don’t rely on electricity.

DVR Basements understands the importance of a beautiful and functional basement space. If you’re looking to renovate or finish your current space, let us help you create a practical and livable room. Contact us today.